Solid preseason lands Nanchoff contract with Timbers

Midfielder played college soccer for Porter

The 24-year-old midfielder, who demonstrated versatility and the ability to deliver dangerous free kicks during his preseason with the Timbers, signed with the club on Thursday.

Nanchoff played his college soccer under Timbers coach Caleb Porter at Akron.

The No. 8 overall pick in the 2011 MLS SuperDraft by Vancouver Whitecaps FC, Nanchoff played in 14 regular-season matches for Vancouver over the last two seasons. He also played in numerous Reserve League matches.

Nanchoff has been with the Timbers throughout training camp. On Feb. 13, Portland acquired the rights to Nanchoff by sending a 2015 supplemental draft pick to Vancouver.

A member of Generation Adidas when drafted out of college, Nanchoff was part of Akron's 2010 NCAA championship team and one of five Zips drafted in the top eight of the 2010 SuperDraft.

He played all 90 minutes of Wednesday's preseason game against FC Dallas. He played at forward in the first half, and in the attacking midfielder position in the second half.

In addition to signing Nanchoff, the Timbers on Thursday announced they have acquired Vancouver's second-round picks in the 2014 and 2015 SuperDraft for the rights to English midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker.

The Timbers held the rights to first negotiate with the 28-year-old who has played more than 300 matches in England's top two leagues.

The Timbers conclude their preseason schedule Saturday with a game against Sweden's AIK. Kickoff is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. at Jeld-Wen Field, and tickets are available. San Jose and Dallas play at 2:30 p.m. Saturday at Jeld-Wen.

The Timbers kick off their third Major League Soccer season March 3 by hosting the New York Red Bulls.

Thorns sign pair — Portland Thorns FC have signed former University of Portland forward Danielle Foxhoven and former University of Florida defender Nazmyne Avant. Both players have been age-group international players for the United States.

Foxhoven, 23, ranks fourth on the University of Portland's all-time career scoring list for both points (139) and goals (57). The Colorado native appeared in 87 matches for the Pilots from 2008-11.

Avant, 23, appeared in 97 matches (79 starts) for Florida from 2008-11.